Analyzing the flow characteristics of a fluidic oscillator

The research performed in this thesis concentrated on the design and analysis of a fluidic oscillator for the provision of a continuously pulsed output. Wall attachment theory was used as the basis for design specifications. A plexiglas model was constructed and tested in the University of Tennessee Space Institute water tunnel. Qualitative appreciation of the flow characteristics was gained using dye injection as a method of flow visualization. A second model was machined out of aluminum for testing with air. Quantitative measurements of the flow parameters were obtained with various instrumentation while a qualitative assessment of the flow was performed using surface oil flow visualization technique. The overall results indicate that fluidic oscillators may be used as a source of unsteady flow. This study confirmed that frequency of oscillation is a linear function of supply flow rate for water and air under non-choked nozzle conditions. The design tested in this study did, however, demonstrate unacceptable total pressure losses. Further research into different design configurations is recommended.